Hyperaldosteronism - primary and secondary

Endocrine glands release hormones (chemical messengers) into the bloodstream to be transported to various organs and tissues throughout the body. For instance, the pancreas secretes insulin, which allows the body to regulate levels of sugar in the blood. The thyroid gets instructions from the pituitary to secrete hormones which determine the pace of chemical activity in the body (the more hormone in the bloodstream, the faster the chemical activity; the less hormone, the slower the activity).

Also known as: Conn syndrome and Mineralocorticoid excess

Definition

Hyperaldosteronism is a disorder in which the adrenal gland releases too much of the hormone aldosterone into the blood.

Hyperaldosteronism can be primary or secondary.

Causes

Primary hyperaldosteronism is due to a problem of the adrenal glands themselves, causing them to release too much aldosterone. In contrast, with secondary hyperaldosteronism, the adrenal glands release too much aldosterone as a result of a problem elsewhere in the body. These problems can be with genes, diet, or a medical disorder such as with the heart, liver, kidneys, or high blood pressure.

Most cases of primary hyperaldosteronism are caused by a noncancerous (benign) tumor of the adrenal gland. The condition is most common in people 30 to 50 years old.

Symptoms

Primary and secondary hyperaldosteronism have common symptoms, including:

Treatment

Primary hyperaldosteronism caused by an adrenal gland tumor is usually treated with surgery. It can sometimes be treated with medicines. Removing the adrenal tumor may control the symptoms. Even after surgery, some people still have high blood pressure and need to take medicine. But often, the number of medicines or doses can be lowered.

Limiting how much salt intake and taking medicine may control the symptoms without surgery. Medicines to treat hyperaldosteronism include:

Drugs that block the action of aldosterone

Diuretics (water pills), which help manage fluid buildup in the body

Secondary hyperaldosteronism is treated with medicines (as described above) and limiting salt intake. Surgery is not used.

Outlook (Prognosis)

The outlook for primary hyperaldosteronism is good with early diagnosis and treatment.

The outlook for secondary hyperaldosteronism depends on the cause of the condition.

Possible Complications

Impotence and gynecomastia (enlarged breasts in men) may occur with long-term use of medicines. But this is uncommon.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you develop symptoms of hyperaldosteronism.

Gynecomastia is the growth of abnormally large breasts in males. It is due to the excess growth of breast tissue, not excess fat tissue.

Review date:

January 8, 2013

Reviewed by:

Brent Wisse, MD, Associate Professor of Medicine, Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology & Nutrition, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Bethanne Black, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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